ABOUT DR HOE SERVICES THE BREAST GUIDE MEDIA CONTACT US LOCATION HELPFUL LINKS
Abscess, Breast Abscess Prevention, Breast Feeding

Introduction

Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenosis
Breast Cyst
Breast Abscess
Breast Cancer
Conclusion
Breast Abscess

The majority of breast abscesses occur in lactating women. The organism, commonly Staphylococcus Aureus, gains entry via a cracked nipple and the infection usually spreads rapidly as milk is a good culture medium. A period of inflammation (mastitis) results before suppuration sets in (abscess formation).

Typically, a patient with a lactational mastitis presents with a painful swelling of one segment of the breast within the first few weeks of breast feeding. There may be accompanying fever, chills and leucocytosis is common. If the infection can be averted at this stage, suppuration and abscess formation can be avoided. This is important because mastitis can usually be treated with an antibiotic such as penicillin, cephalosporin and erythromycin. Once an abscess is formed however, drainage is usually needed.

It may be difficult to distinguish between mastitis and a breast abscess as clinically both conditions present with a painful breast swelling with inflammed overlying skin. An ultrasound scan may be needed to detect an abscess. Lastly, a needle aspiration for pus can be performed to confirm the abscess. Most abscesses are treated by drainage, debridement and packing of the wound. They heal well by granulation.

Milk production is often suppressed in patients with lactational mastitis in the mistaken view that the bacteria in the milk may infect the infant and breast feeding is difficult and painful. However, the current view is to continue breast feeding to empty the breast and to help to clear the infection. Milk can also be expressed from the infected breast with a pump and given to the infant without any harm.

The most effective treatment against breast abscess is prevention; expectant mothers should be taught the proper techniques to care for their nipples during breast-feeding.


All Rights Reserved Hoe Ah Leong Surgery Pte Ltd Powered by Web Synergies